HP Photosmart 375 

One of my very few reservations about the Epson was that images from cards had to be printed as thumbnails and then you selected a number and printed that. Here you have a 5x4cm display to select images you just scroll through the images and highlight the one you want to print. It is even possible to zoom into the image much like you can on certain A4 sized printers that have photo card support.

The unit is tiny at 20x10x11cm and weights only 1.3 kilos. The top of the rear opens outwards by 2cm to allow sheets of 15x10cm Photo Paper to be inserted, opening the rear releases a catch on the 5x4cm TFT screen this can then be used in the slightly raised position or in any of six further positions up to around 60 degrees, the position can make a big difference according to the light source and direction.

The top of the unit has eight buttons, two working on a toggle and one ‘OK’ having a four position outer ring. All are well labelled and you should be in no doubt as to the job each does. The front folds down to provide the output tray for the printed images.

There are five card slots that print most of the card types. It is USB 2 (works with USB 1) but this may be more used by Pict Bridge cameras. The same USB slot also takes the supplied Bluetooth adapter. Here lies a disadvantage that the front cannot be shut with the Bluetooth adapter (or photo cards) in place. The Bluetooth adaptor port on the Epson was at the rear.

On the rear of this unit are the USB port for connection to a PC and the power input. These can stay in place with the back open or closed as they have their own opening through the case.

Images seem to print somewhat quicker at around two minutes per sheet however they are a little more tacky to the touch than the Epson ones that took over a minute longer but were all but dry. Leave the images for a couple of minutes and they are fine, just about the time taken to print another photo.

Neither the Epson or HP mention printing from USB Pen/Stick drives but both do so perfectly well. The HP has the advantage of being a little smaller and has a near conventional three colour cartridge (343) that fits easily into the front, I suspect that the capacity is a lot less than the Epson unit.

The quality of print from both units is excellent, maybe the HP Bluetooth usage is a little easier – neither are difficult – but perhaps the Epson is a little more secure. I printed a range of images on both units and found them difficult to tell apart. Either would be quite acceptable.

The biggest advantages that the HP has is the ability to select images from the TFT screen and or course the Bluetooth adapter is included. On the HP site (link below) you can purchase one for £200. The only authorised partner mentioned on the site, DABS (direct link from the HP site) have it for 7p over &ound;175.

Link : http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/uk/en/ho/WF02a/5043-5683-5807.html